Van Gundy’s Magic Falling Apart – Boston at Orlando Game 6

Howard Rightfully Slams Van Gundy; Magic Falling Apart

When Orlando’s fourth quarter meltdown was done, the Celtics had staged an improbably double-digit comeback in Game 5 to push the Magic to the brink. Ironically, that was the least of the unexpected events in the night. After the game, Dwight Howard openly criticized Stan Van Gundy’s rotation and play schemes in the fourth quarter. More importantly, Howard made it emphatically clear that he wants the damn ball.

Van Gundy failed to get Howard the ball in the fourth quarter, perhaps cementing the fourth quarter collapse by the Magic. He’s also failing to keep this team together. It’s been a strange theme in the Magic-Celtics series; one coach is losing control of his players, while the other coach is thriving because his roster plays for him. I’d never thought I’d say that about Doc Rivers, but I am.

The Celtics are up 3-2 SU in the series against Orlando, with a chance to close the series and stun the NBA betting community with back-to-back appearances in the NBA Eastern Conference Championships against MVP LeBron James.

Boston Celtics vs. Orlando Magic

Thursday, May 14th — Amway Arena, Orlando — 7:00pm EST

NBA Betting Line: Orlando -7 (190)

This series, as well as any definitive series, is defined by discipline. I’ve used this word plenty in describing why Boston has survived this far in spite of the absence of Kevin Garnett. For the past five games I’ve said that Orlando’s one downfall will be a lack of discipline. And look at what’s happening. They’re collapsing in the fourth quarter, losing their grip on 10-point leads with less than six minutes remaining. On top of that, they’re pointing fingers at each other. Never a good sign.

NBA Betting Trends:

• Boston is 821 ATS in their last 11 games on the road
• Boston is 28 SU in their last 10 in Orlando
• Orlando is 134 SU in their last 7 games at home
• the total has gone UNDER in 4 of 5 when Boston plays in Orlando

The only thing that can help you stay afloat in a bevy of inner turmoil is a head strong coach. The problem for Orlando is that their coach, Stan Van Gundy, is the root of the problem. Van Gundy’s indecision, coupled with his volatile nature, are leading to Orlando’s demise. This in no way deflates his ability as a X’s and O’s guy, but it certainly hampers his way ability to coach this team. See ya later, Orlando.

NBA Free Pick: Boston +7 (UNDER)